Rupelli gained valuable experience at the point after being called up from the JV last year. “He wound up starting every game,” noted Hopkins. “He’s gotten stronger, and he keeps things calm for us. We’re hoping for him to limit the turnovers. Henes has matured intellectually and is always around the basketball. He has a nice perimeter game and can drive to the basket. His long arms help on defense.” Returning from the football team are Samuel, Josiah Edouard (5-10, Sr.), and newcomer Henry Smith. “They are extremely athletic and quick, and will help us on the defensive end,” said Hopkins. “Samuel is ridiculously athletic. Hopkins has a number of seniors at his disposal. Hristoforatos “has improved and is working on his post game. He’s tough rebounding-wise and can score points in the paint. Ibrahim has so much potential, and is a defensive-minded big man. Ahmad is good on the perimeter, excellent from the foul line, and can go to the basket. Muhamet Shala (6-4, Sr.) will fight for minutes with Hristoforatos and Ibrahim, and may be the best of the three offensively,” said Hopkins. 

KEY NEWCOMERS 

While Smith, a 6-foot senior, will help on the defensive end, Lukasz Wybraniec (6-0, Jr.) will provide outside shooting. 

2013-14 OUTLOOK 

Hopkins is looking to erase the memory of a poor 2012-13 by returning to the postseason. “I’m extremely disappointed that last year was unsuccessful,” said Hopkins. “But now we’re more experienced and seasoned, and the kids are hungry. The football guys should give us a spark. Our cohesiveness is our strength. These kids enjoy being in the gym. We’re concentrating on limiting mistakes and poor shot selection. And we’re looking to get back into the PSAL playoffs. That’s our No. 1 goal.” 